Octreotide Injection (OCTREOTIDE DEPOT SUSPENSION - INJECTION)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • abnormal bowel function
  • diarrhea
  • endocrine disorder
  • enlarged veins
  • hormone imbalance
  • irritable bowel syndrome
  • nutritional malabsorption
  • cancer
  • tumors

Brand Name(s): Sandostatin

Generic Name: Octreotide

Instructions

This medicine is given as an injection into a muscle.

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

The medicine needs to be mixed before being injected.

Do not dilute the medicine until ready to use.

If using the vial, do not remove the medicine from the vial until ready to use.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Keep medicine in refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from light.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

Take the medicine out of the refrigerator about 30 to 60 minutes before use to warm to room temperature.

Inject the medicine immediately after mixing.

Injecting cold drug may be uncomfortable.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Discard any remaining medicine after your dose is given.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Do not inject into skin that is red, swollen or itchy.

Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all your medicines. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

This medicine may affect your blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor before changing the dose of your diabetes medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

If possible, avoid using with marijuana or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • bloating
  • constipation
  • dizziness
  • excess gas
  • headaches
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • nausea and vomiting
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain
  • loose, oily stools

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • change in blood sugar level
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • unusual growth or lump on the neck
  • nervousness
  • shakiness
  • shortness of breath
  • sweating
  • difficulty adjusting to changes in temperature
  • persistent or unusual thirst
  • severe or persistent vomiting
  • sudden or unexplained weight gain

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.